Rachael Stachowiak

Director, Interstate Policy & Compliance, State Authorization Network

As director for interstate policy and compliance, Rachael supports the mission and activities of WCET’s State Authorization Network, an institutional membership organization that provides training, support, and opportunities to collaborate and navigate regulatory compliance for distance and out-of-state activities. In this role, she coordinates and builds communities of practice, strategies, and resources to address state-by-state requirements pertaining to postsecondary education.

As a native from a small college town in Northwest, PA, Rachael cares deeply about access and affordability of postsecondary education and its impact on the viability and prosperity of rural communities. Her fascination with and passion for interstate compliance are ever present and her observations of the growth and reach of online programming and innovative pedagogical practices (i.e. physical presence triggers) continue to fuel her commitment to the field. We are honored to have her a part of our team.

Previously, Rachael oversaw the management and coordination of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) with the New England Board of Higher Education. In prior roles, she focused on building institution-wide coordination and operational capacity for improved academic services.

Outside of her respective profession, Rachael is a classically trained bassoonist who enjoys listening to the works of Bach, Mendelssohn, and Stravinsky. She is also a fan of the character Veronica Mars.